“We have a really strong offense and we are trying to build a stronger defense.”

Harris said the nucleus of his team is junior goalie Brandon Crisp.

“He takes 30-plus shots a game and we’d like to reduce that to 20 shots if possible to reduce his workload and tighten up the defense,” Harris said.

The team finished 4-11 in the Peak League last season. Harris said he and his players want to build from that with a lot more success this season.

Harris said the team will rely on senior forwards Isaac Ruybal, Collin Miller and Matt Peters.

“Isaac Ruybal has speed, Matt Peters is a straight power forward and the expectation is for him to score,” Harris said. “Collin Miller is a smart player that knows how to find open ice and put the puck in the net.”

The Hornets face a tough league schedule every year.

“The bottom line is that we need to develop our systems and we just need to play within what our capabilities are and use that against no matter what team we face,” Harris said. “When you peel away the onion, you basically need to know who the other team’s best players are and you need to have the ability to shut them down, like in most sports. We stand a really good chance with even hanging with some of the best teams.”

Seeding has a huge impact on success in the playoffs and Harris said winning in the regular season can only make it better.

“You’ll never make the playoffs on a 50-50 season,” Harris said.

Harris said his independently funded co-op team needs community support and he encouraged people to attend to the home games, which are all at the Pueblo Ice Arena. The Hornets play host to Valor Christian tonight at Pueblo Plaza.